Fetal alcohol syndrome in a post-pandemic of COVID-19 context

Abstract

Objective: To delineate a connection between the secondary consequences of the COVID-19 pos pandemic and the risk factors for fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) and fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS). Bibliographic review: In the current post-pandemic context, it is correct to say that there has been an increase in some of the major factors that influence an increased risk of developing FASD. These include increased stress and anxiety, which have impoverished mental health and increased alcohol consumption, unemployment rates have increased food insecurity, and the impact on health services has decreased the delivery of basic services. All these factors already existed, but were exacerbated by the pandemic, and can be considered secondary consequences of it. Final considerations: The pandemic of COVID-19 certainly made pregnancies more difficult and increased factors associated with the development of developmental disorders such as FASD and FAS. Research on the relation of these factors, in a post-pandemic context, to an increase in FASD and FAS cases is still scarce, although the relation exists. This should be evaluated, as these are conditions that permanently compromise the lives of those affected but are predictable and preventable.